Hope You Like Turbos, Because Lexus Sure Does

By adpock - January 4, 2016

lexus-turbo engine

Does the word “turbo” make you think “modern”? Does such modernity make you want one?

Because Lexus marketing manager Brian Bolain thinks it does, and he and his team probably spend most of their time trying to think exactly like you do. Well, you and your fellow consumerists.

At a recent press event in Palm Springs, California, Bolain told Automotive News the following:

“What ‘turbo’ says to the typical consumer is you’re modern. People hear ‘turbo,’ and even for someone who doesn’t know or couldn’t explain how it works, they know it’s something good and they know they want one.”

Do you agree?

Whether or not you do isn’t really important at this point (to Bolain, not to me; I care.) Because Lexus is going full turbo ahead. On the heels of a fantastic 2015 for the NX 200t, for 2016, Lexus will be offering base trim 200t turbo options in not just the NX, but also in the IS, GS, and RC models.

Depending on the car, the 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder will make 235 or 241 hp and 258 pounds-feet of torque. If you’re looking at the IS, GS, or RC, the little turbo that could will be paired to an eight-speed Aisin automatic transmission. In the NX, you’ll get all-wheel-drive and a six-speed auto.

Obviously price point, fuel economy, and government regulations contribute largely to this move, but peer pressure is also at play here. Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi only offer turbocharged engines at this point.